Harold R. Buttleman (Rich) 82, passed peacefully, surrounded by his wife and children at his home in Parker, CO February 9, 2017. Rich is survived by his wife Doris (life partner), daughter Julie DeNicola (partner in crime), son Kurt (golf partner), Kurt’s wife Kim, Grandchildren: Allison (Keith) Benson, Kimberly DeNicola, Richard DeNicola, Dori Buttleman, Hank Buttleman and great grandson Lane Benson.

Rich and Doris were married August 14, 1955 and enjoyed a magical 62-year marriage. Stubborn on rare occasions, Rich was a gentle man who loved life and lived it in a big way. He was loved by all who were honored to know him.

Rich grew up in Chicago (home of his beloved White Sox), graduated from the University of Illinois (Go Illini!) with a degree in Finance and served in the US Army. He had a 35+ year career at Caterpillar and retired as President of Caterpillar’s World Trade Corporation, where he was a mentor and lifelong friend to many of his colleagues.

Rich was a world traveler who called Illinois, Brazil, Florida and Colorado home at various times in his life. He was an accomplished baseball pitcher, an avid golfer (two holes in one!), and master chef (famous for his BBQ ribs) who loved cooking for friends and family.

A memorial luncheon for Rich, also known as Darling, Dad, Papa, HR, Champ, Boom Boom and The Best, will be held on May 28 at 11:30 AM at Pekin Country Club in Pekin, IL.

Donations in honor of Rich may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital (stjude.org).

As they say on the first tee at the Masters: Fore please, Rich Buttleman, now driving…

 Service Information